Allochthonous

/əˈlɒkθənəs/ adjective

Definition

Originating or formed in a different place and transported to where it is now found, used for rocks, fossils, or organisms.

Etymology

From Greek allo- (other) + chthon (earth) + -ous (adjective suffix). The adjective form of allochthon, widely used in geology and paleontology.

Kelly Says

Fossils can be 'foreigners' too—an allochthonous fossil might have been swept downstream or pushed miles away before fossilizing, giving paleontologists tricky puzzles to solve!

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